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Eight years ago, Andrew and Narelle Glynn bought a slice of land out in Trentham, Victoria, with the dream of building a French-inspired weekend escape and boutique accomodation.
Having previously lived in Toulouse for two years, the Francophiles were determined to re-create the French-provincial farmhouse-style they’d come to know and love. ‘We chose Trentham for its charming township, wonderful local businesses and small community feel,’ explains Narelle.
It took them a year to build their nostalgic weekend escape, carefully designing the build to reflect the style and proportions of country homes in France. They sourced local and European suppliers for the materials; the windows and doors are from France; roof tiles from Spain; the timber flooring is engineered from 200-year-old French Oak; and the timber beams, lintels, mantles and window sills are all made from hardwood salvaged from piers and wharves around Australia.
‘We didn’t want the house to look like a new build, so we hand selected each feature material to deliver an aged patina,’ says Narelle.
From the moment guests to The French House arrive, a gravel driveway leads them towards the pale brick farmhouse lined with creeping vines and pale blue shutters, topped with a terracotta tile roof. Out the back, eight French windows and doors under a grapevine-laden pergola deliver sweeping views out to the equally charming parterre garden and tennis court.
Andrew, Narelle and their two children Henry and Sophie have adored being transported to France each weekend getaway – so too have guests to the boutique accommodation – but with new opportunities on the horizon, they’ve made the decision to put it on the market.
‘It’s been a privilege to create this special home,’ says Narelle. ‘We are excited to see who will be the lucky new owner.’
7 Gleeson Street, Trentham, is listed with Natalie Fagan at Belle Property Daylesford.
